Deshaun Watson delivers a powerful statement to fellow Browns quarterbacks, warning Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett, Dillon Gabriel, and Shedeur Sanders not to count him out. Full breakdown from NFL Wires.
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Deshaun Watson Sends Clear Message to Browns Quarterbacks: "Don’t Leave Me for Dead"
The Cleveland Browns quarterback situation just got a jolt of intensity as veteran QB Deshaun Watson made headlines this week with a pointed message for the rest of the crowded QB room. Addressing teammates Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett, rookie Dillon Gabriel, and highly discussed prospect Shedeur Sanders, Watson stated flatly: "Nobody better leave me for dead."
Watson's fiery declaration comes as he works his way back from a season-ending shoulder injury and faces competition like never before. His statement isn't just about regaining the starting job—it’s about reclaiming his role as the face of the Browns.
Watson’s Return: A Statement of Intent
Deshaun Watson’s NFL career has taken dramatic turns—from Pro Bowl-level dominance in Houston to off-field controversies, suspensions, and now injury rehab. After undergoing shoulder surgery in late 2023, many questioned if Watson would ever return to form.
But now, as 2025 OTAs (Organized Team Activities) heat up in Berea, Ohio, Watson seems ready to silence the doubters once again.
"I’ve heard everything—from people writing me off to folks questioning my work ethic. Let me be clear—I’m still that guy." — Deshaun Watson, via team media availability
The Browns’ Crowded Quarterback Room
Cleveland’s front office didn’t wait around during Watson’s recovery. Instead, they built one of the deepest QB rooms in the NFL this offseason:
- Joe Flacco: Veteran Super Bowl MVP, brought back after leading a playoff push last year.
- Kenny Pickett: Acquired from Pittsburgh, still considered a developmental project.
- Dillon Gabriel: Promising rookie from Oregon with raw upside.
- Shedeur Sanders: The media’s favorite storyline—son of Deion Sanders, he dropped to the 5th round but may be the future.
Each of these quarterbacks presents a different challenge to Watson’s starting role—and he knows it.
"I See the Competition. I Welcome It."
Despite the added pressure, Watson isn’t backing down. In fact, he seems energized by the younger arms trying to make a name for themselves.
“I see the competition. I welcome it. I’ve been through worse than this,” he said during a practice Q&A. “But no one here should think I’m going to step aside quietly.”
Reports from NFL Wires insiders at practice indicate Watson is showing better footwork, deeper ball velocity, and sharper command of the offense than he did before his injury. If he continues progressing, the QB1 job could remain his to lose.
Team Reaction: “We’re All Locked In”
The Browns’ locker room appears to be handling the QB dynamic with professionalism. Joe Flacco praised Watson’s leadership, saying, “He’s hungry. That energy is contagious.”
Rookie Shedeur Sanders added, “There’s no hate. He’s earned everything he’s got. I’m learning from the vets every day.”
Head Coach Kevin Stefanski, meanwhile, has refused to name a starter, instead stating that the competition will “sort itself out on the field.”
Browns Fans: Divided But Hopeful
Fan reaction on social media has been a mixed bag:
- Some fans are calling for Shedeur Sanders to get more reps, citing his youth and potential.
- Others remain loyal to Joe Flacco, especially after last season’s playoff run.
- But many are rooting for Watson’s comeback story, believing a healthy Deshaun gives Cleveland their best chance at a Super Bowl.
Polls conducted by www.nflwires.com show Watson still leads fan confidence at 42%, followed by Flacco (28%) and Sanders (24%).
Final Thoughts: Watson’s Fight Isn’t Over
Deshaun Watson’s message wasn’t just for the Browns quarterback room—it was for the entire NFL. After months of rehab, silence, and speculation, Watson wants the league to know he’s not done. And if his words are any indication, his game is far from finished.
Whether he ends up starting Week 1 or faces further challenges from the next generation, one thing’s clear: Deshaun Watson is not going quietly.
Stay tuned with NFL Wires for daily updates from Browns camp and other breaking NFL stories.
